Unlike the Oscars and other award shows, where stars tend to shy away from political statements, a host of presenters and winners who took the stage at Monday's Genie gala* spoke out against Bill C-10, a proposed law now before the Senate that would allow the federal government to deny tax credits for films that it deems offensive or not in the public interest.
Canadian actress Sandra Oh, who shared hosting duties with comedian Debra DiGiovanni, brought up the bill early on.
"Censorship has had a little work done and is trying to make a comeback," quipped Oh, who took a break from regular filming of U.S. medical drama Grey's Anatomy to return home to host the gala.
"I don't know about you, but that doesn't sound Canadian to me. Let's stop it," said the Nepean, Ont.-born actress.
Later, backstage, she added that "it would be hypocritical for me to be hosting and not talking about this."
Lantos, Dallaire and Polley were also among those who brought up Bill C-10 during their time at the microphone.
"C-10 hasn't made it through the Senate yet," Dallaire said to applause from the audience.
Source
*Canada's Oscars
